DESTINATION GUIDE: ITALY

Italy

Italy, located in Southern Europe and stretching into the Mediterranean, is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Attracting over 60 million visitors annually, Italy is home to some of the world’s most memorable historical architecture, including ancient ruins like the Colosseum and religious spaces like the Vatican. Boasting rich history, stunning art, and incredible cuisine, the country offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re visiting Italy for the first time or just want to learn more about the nation, read on to discover the best things to do, as well as some local tips and tricks to make your experience more memorable.

 

POPULATION: 59.3 million

PRIMARY LANGUAGE: Italian

PRIMARY CURRENCY: Euro (EUR)

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Visit Italy’s official government website or your local Embassy for more information.

Climate

Italy has a diverse climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters in the south, while the north experiences cooler winters and more rainfall. The best time to visit for tourism is typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are smaller. Summer, from July to August, is the high season, especially along the coasts and in cities like Rome and Florence, where tourists flock for festivals, beach trips, and exploring Italy’s historic sites. Just be prepared for hot temperatures and busy attractions during this time!

Capital Cities

Rome, Italy’s capital city, is located in the central-western part of the country, near the Mediterranean coast. With a history spanning over 2,700 years, it’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome was the heart of the ancient Roman Empire and is filled with historical landmarks. Visitors can explore iconic sites like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, as well as Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. We recommend visiting during summer when the weather is good, the days are long and the top tourist attractions are open the most!

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LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, a trip to Italy will be a memorable experience no matter how you choose to travel. However, if you want to immerse yourself that little bit more into local culture, check out our top local tips and tricks for visiting the country:

  • Greet With Two Kisses – Italian’s are known for their affectionate greetings, so be prepared for the two-kiss greeting when you’re meeting someone, friend or stranger. One kiss on each cheek will suffice – if you’re not sure, wait for the other party to move in first and follow their lead!
  • Learn How to Order Coffee  – Italy’s coffee culture is as serious as it’s made out to be online – so before you go, it’s worth learning the do’s, don’ts and how to order what you prefer to drink! Firstly, Italian’s don’t get their coffee takeaway – they prefer to enjoy it at the bar or counter. Secondly, a cappuccino is considered a breakfast drink and shouldn’t be ordered past 11am. Instead, order a caffe normale, a straight shot of espresso!
  • Dress Well – Italians are a well-dressed people, so when you’re visiting Italy, leave the lounge wear at home and instead reach for nice dresses, tailored pants or linen shirts. Casual and comfortable shoes are still acceptable to walk on the cobblestone streets, but you will be frowned upon for going out in lounge or active wear!
  • Embrace the Riposino – Nap culture is thoroughly ingrained in Italian culture, and you’ll often find that shops close during the hottest part of the day and reopen again a few hours later when it’s a bit cooler. During this time, we recommend grabbing a bite to eat, taking a walk or just heading back to your hotel room and taking part in this part of the culture!
  • Expect Later Starts and Finishes – Italian life starts and finishes later compared to other parts of the world, so when visiting the area be prepared to eat, sleep and visit tourist attractions later than you normally would. Expect breakfast around 7 or 8am, lunch after 1pm and dinner from 7pm.

FAQ’s

When is the best season to visit Italy?

The best seasons to visit Italy are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. These times of year offer pleasant temperatures for exploring cities, countryside, and coastlines, while avoiding the heat and high tourist numbers of the summer months. However, if you’re not afraid of the crowds, we recommend visiting during the height of summer when the weather is the best!

Where are the best places to visit in Italy?

Italy is well-known for its multitude of ancient landmarks, incredible seaside and wine culture. Some of the best places to visit in Italy include Rome for its ancient landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City, Venice for its romantic canals, and Florence for its Renaissance art and architecture. The Amalfi Coast offers stunning seaside views, while Tuscany is perfect for rolling vineyards and charming towns. For history and archaeology lovers, Pompeii and the island of Sicily are must-see destinations. If you’re not sure what to see on your next trip, we recommend speaking to our Travel Agents who can craft the perfect holiday.

What documents do I need to enter Italy?

To enter Italy, most travellers need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. Depending on your nationality, you may also require a visa for stays longer than 90 days or for specific purposes. For citizens of many countries, including the EU, US, Canada, and Australia, short stays of up to 90 days typically do not require a visa. We recommend checking the Italian government website or with your Travel Agent for accurate information.

Is Italy safe to visit?

Yes, Italy is generally considered a safe country to visit, with low levels of violent crime. However, like many popular tourist destinations, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas like train stations and major attractions. By staying aware of your surroundings and taking basic precautions, such as keeping your belongings secure, you can enjoy a safe and pleasant trip. If you have any doubts, check the SmartTraveller website for up-to-date information or ask your Travel Agent.

Is English spoken in Italy?

While Italian is the primary language spoken in Italy, English is commonly understood in major tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, especially in cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. However, in more rural areas and smaller towns, English may be less widely spoken, so it’s helpful to know a few basic Italian phrases to get by. We recommend learning Italian regardless, so you can communicate better with locals and have a better experience travelling.

Is Italy expensive?

Italy can be expensive, particularly in major tourist cities like Rome, Venice, and Milan, where accommodation, dining, and attractions can be pricey. However, there are plenty of affordable options, such as budget-friendly hotels, delicious street food, and free or low-cost attractions, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Our experienced Travel Agents are able to craft the perfect holiday for you no matter your budget, so chat to them to see how they can make your Italian holiday happen!

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